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    Home / Novinky / King of the Mediterranean with a "Hump" – The Story of the Italian Sparviero

    King of the Mediterranean with a "Hump" – The Story of the Italian Sparviero

    Hello all aviation enthusiasts and history lovers! Today, we're diving into the story of one of the most iconic and distinctive aircraft of World War II – the Italian Savoia-Marchetti S.79 Sparviero, or "Sparrowhawk." This machine represents a fascinating chapter in Italian aviation engineering, not only due to its performance but also for its unique appearance and role in the conflict.

     

    A Racer with Pedigree

     

    Imagine that the aircraft which became the terror of Allied convoys in the Mediterranean began its career as a civilian speed special! That's right. The first prototype of the S.79 took flight in 1934 and was originally designed as an elegant, eight-seat transport aircraft intended to break speed records. And it truly succeeded! Between 1937 and 1939, the S.79 set an incredible 26 world records. For a time, it was even considered the fastest medium bomber in the world. Even then, it was clear this was no ordinary machine.

     

    "Il Gobbo Maledetto" – The Cursed Hunchback with a Unique Shape

     

    But what made the S.79 so unmistakable? Undoubtedly, its characteristic "hump" on the fuselage's dorsal side. It was precisely this feature that earned the aircraft the nickname "Il gobbo maledetto" – "The Cursed Hunchback." This hump, which housed the gunner and a machine gun, gave the S.79 an absolutely unique silhouette that is impossible to confuse with anything else. It's proof that beauty in aviation doesn't have to be just about graceful lines, but also about functional and original design.

     

    King of the Mediterranean: Bomber and Torpedo Aircraft

     

    With the outbreak of World War II, the S.79 became the backbone of the Italian bombing and torpedo air force (Regia Aeronautica). It was widely deployed on all fronts in the Mediterranean, where it proved its qualities. As a torpedo aircraft, it became a feared adversary of Allied ships. S.79 crews carried out daring low-level attacks over the water, aiming their torpedoes at sailing targets, often under intense anti-aircraft fire. It was precisely these actions that made the S.79 famous and earned it respect.

    Although its defensive armament was not the strongest, its speed and maneuverability often helped it evade enemy fighters. A total of over 1200 S.79 units were produced, making it one of the most widely manufactured Italian aircraft ever. It even remained in service in Italy until the 1950s.

     

    The S.79 Sparviero in Your Hands – Italeri Model and Special Offer!

     

    If this unique aircraft fascinates you, we have great news! The leading model manufacturer Italeri offers an excellent kit of the S.79 Sparviero in 1:72 scale (code 1290). This kit is beautifully detailed and allows you to recreate this significant aircraft with authentic markings. You can bring a piece of Italian aviation history home and feel the atmosphere of the Mediterranean during World War II.

    We have also selected this kit as our product of the week and are offering it with a 20% discount! For members of our ASK club, the price is even more advantageous. As a bonus with this exclusive model, you will receive Correct Cowlings from Aires (Quickboost) for free. This upgrade part is already included in the kit, so you don't have to worry about anything.

    Order as soon as possible, as the number of pieces is limited! This offer is valid until next Thursday, July 24, 2025.